Keep Your Teen Workers From Making One Wrong Move

Teen workers are energetic, eager to learn and cost-effective, but their lack of experience poses a risk of on-the-job accidents.

One wrong move on the job can cost a teen worker his or her life. Texas Mutual is on a mission to mold teens into safe workers. You can help us by following these tips.

Train them
Show all of your employees how to do their jobs safely. Monitor their progess, and reinforce the message with signs and training updates.

Lead by example
Safety is contagious. Teach your supervisors and managers to set a unified example for teen workers.

Provide safety equipment
Proper safety equipment is more than a good idea – it’s the law. Supply your staff with masks, gloves, hardhats, two-wheelers, braces and other relevant safety equipment. Show your employees the proper way to use the equipment.

Know the hazards
Inspect your work areas for potential dangers, and correct problems before accidents happen. Common workplace hazards include:

  • Toxic chemicals
  • Frayed and exposed electrical wiring
  • Discarded needles or medical waste
  • Slippery floors
  • Hot equipment, boiling water or heated grease
  • Sharp objects or tools
  • Heavy objects that may fall or need to be moved
  • Furniture or equipment that could cause workers to trip or fall
  • Violent crime
  • Roughhousing employees
  • Chemicals or materials that may cause allergic reactions
  • Equipment or tasks that could cause repetitive motion injuries
  • Supervisors, co-workers or customers who act in a harassing manner

Plan for emergencies
Chemical leaks, fires, severe weather and other emergencies can affect any workplace. Create an emergency plan for evacuating the facility, treating wounds and contacting emergency personnel. Practice the plan regularly. Every employee should know exactly what to do in an emergency.

Follow the law
State and federal laws protect teen workers. Knowing the law can help you prevent accidents and avoid fines and legal repercussions.

Employers should be aware that, in Texas, workers under the age of 18:

  • Are restricted in the types of work they can perform
  • Are restricted in the types of equipment they can operate
  • Are restricted in the number of hours they can work per week
  • Must receive training and safety equipment prior to beginning a work task
  • May not be allowed to operate a motor vehicle as part of their employment
  • Must have a health permit if handling or preparing food
  • May be eligible to receive lost wages in the event of a workplace injury
  • May be eligible to have their medical expenses paid in the event of a workplace injury

For more information on youth employment laws, visit www.texasworkforce.org/ui/lablaw/cllsum.html.

Be approachable
Remember your first job? Were you nervous, afraid to ask questions and eager to make a good impression? One of the best things you can do to protect teen workers is also the easiest: Be approachable. Make sure teens understand that you expect them to ask questions about safety procedures and report unsafe conditions. Teach them that safety, quality and production are inseparable.

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